“Put on a hat!..”

Many of us remember these words — our mothers repeated them like a mantra throughout our childhood. But is it really that important to wear a hat in winter? Was mom right, or is the role of headwear greatly exaggerated?

It’s no secret that cold air, wind, and sudden temperature changes negatively affect the skin of our face and hands. But what about the scalp and hair?

Leading European dermatologists and trichologists emphasize: wearing a hat in winter is not just a fashion accessory, but an essential element in protecting the beauty and health of both hair and scalp.

So why is frost so harmful?

In cold weather, the air becomes drier. Strong winter winds provoke moisture loss from both the hair and the skin, including the scalp.

Due to reduced humidity, hair becomes dry, brittle, dull, and more prone to static electricity.

In addition, the combination of cold outdoor air and intense indoor heating disrupts the hydrolipid balance of the scalp, which often leads to itching, irritation, and even hair loss.

Why does this happen?

When exposed to low temperatures, blood vessels in the scalp constrict, reducing blood flow to the hair follicles — and with it, the supply of oxygen and nutrients. Over time, this can slow down hair growth and increase hair shedding in winter, especially if you regularly go out in cold or windy weather without wearing a hat.

British trichologist Sara Alkazraji (The Institute of Trichologists, London, UK) notes that during the winter months many of her patients complain about scalp dryness and irritation, hair fragility, and loss of shine.

The specialists’ verdict is clear: wearing a hat is essential — not only in freezing temperatures, but also in cold and windy weather.

And what about myths? We’ve gathered the most common winter hair myths for you.

Myth 1: If you don’t wear a hat, you’ll go bald.

Not exactly. Cold itself does not cause baldness. However, it can weaken the hair structure, making it more fragile and prone to shedding.

Myth 2: A hat is a cure for all hair problems.

First of all, not every hat is beneficial. Choose natural, breathable materials. Important: the hat should not be too tight, so it doesn’t restrict blood circulation.

Secondly, a hat alone is not enough. Cold and windy weather is a reason to add nourishing and moisturizing products to your hair care routine.

Myth 3: “Frost and sunshine — a wonderful day.”

Only not for your hair! Even if the weather is sunny, calm, and clear, low temperatures still have a negative impact on hair.

And now the most important part: winter hair care tips.

What will help preserve beauty and health during the cold season?

• Do not go outside with wet, freshly washed hair. Wet strands are especially vulnerable to cold air. Besides overall cooling, you risk damaging the hair structure.

• Add products to your winter routine that contain:

1- Glycerin — a powerful moisturizer for hair and scalp.

2- Ceramides — restore the protective lipid barrier of the hair.

3- Panthenol (Provitamin B5) — moisturizes, soothes the scalp, and reduces hair breakage.

4- Oils rich in fatty acids (argan, jojoba, shea, avocado) — nourish, soften, and protect hair.

5- Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) — improves the scalp’s barrier function and stimulates microcirculation.

Conclusions:

During the cold season, hair truly needs protection. Frost and wind won’t “kill” it instantly, but regular walks without a hat can seriously affect the beauty and health of your hair.

The right headwear and a smart hair care routine are the reliable foundation for strong, shiny, and healthy hair in winter.